|
|
|
|
NAME
Efavirenz |
BRAND
Sustiva |
CLASS
Non-nucleoside analog (also called non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor, NRTI or non-nuke) |
COST
$4,730/yr., $394/month |
STANDARD DOSE
Three 200 mg (600 mg) capsules once a day, prefaboraly at bedtime with no food restrictions (avoid high fat meals) also available in smaller 50mg and 100 mg capsules. Dose can be spilt up. Approved for children three years and older. Strawberry/mint flavored solution available to children under expanded access program. Take missed dose as soon as possible, but do not double the dose. |
POTENTIAL SIDE EFFECTS
Central nervous systems (CNS) symptoms (dizziness, headache, somnolence or hypnotic trance) psychiatric symptoms (confusion, insomnia, hallucinations, vivid dreams, or nightmares, depression, euphoria, or mania, agitation) rash, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and increased liver enzymes. These symptoms occur early and generally resolve within two to four weeks. In a small number of patients, serious psychiatric symptoms have been reported. Rash is the most common adverse event. Diarrhea, fever and low levels of neutrophils are also more common, and more severe, in children. Diarrhea, fever and low levels of neutophils are also more common. Some people in recovery experience flashbacks. Women should not become pregnant because of the risk of birth defects. |
POTENTIAL DRUG INTERACTIONS
May cause methadone withdrawal. When taken with Sustiva, Crixivan should be increased to 1,000 mg every eight hours. Kaletra should be increased to four capsules twice a day. Because Fortovase decreases 60%, it should be avoided. No interaction data available with Fortovase/Norvir- knowledgeable doctors doubles Fortovase to 800 mg twice a day. Sustiva and Norvir increase when used together and increase risk of liver damage and other potential side effects. Do not take with Hismanal (astemizile) Versed (Midazolam) Halcion (triazolam) or egot medications (such as Wigraine and Carforgot in any form- serious interactions seen with dilation during gynecological exams) reduces Biaxin (clarithromycin) dose by 37%. May affect coumadin (warfarin) therapy. Back up birth control method to the Pill is recommended because of potential fetal deformities. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
 |
|
